What Are Ghosts?

Ghosts are disembodied human beings, something we all become at death, until we are reunited with our bodies at the resurrection of the dead (CCC 997ff; 1038). Praying for the repose of the faithful departed and others who have died is a good thing. Learning about the lives of the saints and asking for their prayerful intercession are also good things.

What is not good is seeking out communication with the dead, e.g., through séances. This is an example of divination, which is strictly prohibited (see CCC 2117-19).